Charles Wilkes (April 3, 1798 – February 8, 1877) was an American naval officer and explorer. He led the United States Exploring Expedition, 1838-1842 and commanded the ship in the Trent Affair during the American Civil War (1861–1865). Although credited with several "firsts", his behavior led to two convictions at court-martial.
Read more about Charles Wilkes: Early Life and Career, Columbian Institute, The South Seas Expedition, The Civil War, Last Years, Legacy, References in Literature, Publications